In this, my final article for Together in Mission, I want to share two questions that have been in my heart for some time:
What might the missional impact of our SA Baptist movement look and feel like in the next 5-10 years if we were to optimise our collective capacity to be an authentic expression of the Gospel in our complex society?
This is a question that I believe requires faithful, earnest and ongoing consideration followed by intentional action.
I believe our Lord Jesus Christ is seeking to reveal to us whole new ways in which we can ‘be salt’ and ‘shine the light’ of the gospel in our homes, our communities, our State and our beautiful God-given country.
On 27 October, an energised group of Baptist pastors and leaders came together with key leaders from Baptist Care SA in a forum called ‘Walking Together in Mission’.
Those present shared their insights and learnings and cast visions about how we might reflect the light of the gospel as we step forward together.
Please pray with our leaders that these challenging questions might find expression in our planning, our actions and the heritage that we leave for those that follow us.
What role will the Australian Baptist movement play in achieving healing and reconciliation with our first nation’s people?
If you haven’t already, I encourage you to read the ‘Uluru Statement from the Heart’.
In just 439 words, this gracious text invites us all on a journey of healing toward respect, reconciliation and nationhood.
Whilst Baptist Care SA is working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people every day with, and on behalf of, local Baptist churches, I encourage you to search your own heart, see and embrace all people in the way our gracious Almighty Father does.
Finally, as I step down from the role of CEO, I extend sincere thanks to all those who have been reading these notes over the last four years, to the three SA Baptist Boards, to the Executives, Managers, staff and volunteers of Baptist Care SA with whom I have been privileged to serve.
I also particularly acknowledge my valued colleague Graeme Mulligan who has been faithfully modelling servant leadership in his various roles within Baptist Care SA (and well beyond) for almost 20 years.
Blessings to you all!
Yours in Christ.
Graham Brown
Chief Executive Officer
